Lazy Bean & Cheese Chimichangas

cheddar cheese

🥗Healthier: reduced-fat cheese

💰Cheaper: monterey jack cheese

Monterey jack is often less expensive and melts well.

sour cream

🥗Healthier: Greek yogurt

💰Cheaper: plain yogurt

Greek yogurt provides a similar tang with fewer calories.

flour tortillas

🥗Healthier: whole wheat tortillas

💰Cheaper: corn tortillas

Corn tortillas are often less expensive and gluten-free.

cream cheese

🥗Healthier: Greek yogurt

💰Cheaper: ricotta cheese

Ricotta can be a cost-effective alternative with a similar texture.

Heat a pan over medium high heat and melt 2 tablespoons of lard (or bacon grease).

Add 5 ounces of chorizo and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes, breaking it down with a spoon.

Add 1/4 onion, 2 garlic cloves, and 2 jalapenos (if using) to the chorizo and sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes until fragrant.

Add a 31 ounce can of refried beans to the mixture.

Stir in 1.5 cups of water (or chicken broth) and simmer on low heat for about 15 to 20 minutes, stirring often.

Taste and adjust seasoning, adding 1 tablespoon of tomato bouillon instead of salt.

Let the beans cool down before preparing the chimichangas.

On a preheated flour tortilla, add a spoonful of the beans and a few pieces of Monterey Jack cheese.

Add a small spoonful of beans over the cheese to keep it in the middle, then fold the tortilla tightly.

Spray the chimichangas with cooking spray or brush with cooking oil.

Bake in the oven at 400 degrees for 12 to 15 minutes or air-fry at 400 degrees for 12 minutes until crispy.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary

Allergens